Porcelain Dental Inlays and Onlays in Calgary

Inlays and onlays are classified as indirect dental restorations, meaning that they are created in our lab and affixed to teeth in a second visit. Fillings, on the other hand, are direct dental treatments, since they are applied directly to teeth and can be done in one visit.

The porcelain used to create inlays and onlays has the ability to protect and strengthen teeth more than fillings, which are used to fill in small areas of decay or damage as reinforcement. Not only are they stronger, but unlike fillings, the ceramic is unlikely to compress after setting. As a result, you have a lower possibility of developing gaps between the filling and tooth walls where food particles can accumulate and cause problems. Further, the surface of the inlay is more likely to resist wearing away over time as you continue to use it for eating. Inlays and onlays also resemble the qualities of tooth enamel more so than the composite material used in fillings, helping you achieve a more natural-looking smile!

Often times, the empty space left behind after damage or decay is too large to be covered with a filling. In that case, porcelain inlays may be a more effective option. Each indirect filling is customized to match the exact shape and size of the empty gap to ensure a perfect fit! In case a cavity was too big, you might receive a temporary dental filling until the customized inlays are ready for fitting.

Yes, the inlay and only procedure can be done in as little as one visit using CEREC technology (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics). CEREC technology is an innovative process of creating porcelain inlays and onlays. Dentists use a small infrared camera to take scans of the dental cavity and assess the shape of the required indirect filling. The computerized CEREC machine uses the scans to mill the inlay from a single block of porcelain while you wait. As soon as the prosthetic is ready, the doctor attaches it to the tooth right away.

This system is suitable for patients who would prefer to complete the treatment at a single appointment. Further, patients who have a quick gag reflex and cannot give dental impressions can also opt for the CEREC technology. Occasionally we may still need to take an impression for our laboratory to construct your inlay or onlay which would require two visits, but the majority of the time one visit is required.

The total expense of the treatment can depend on various factors including:

• Your location
• The level of expertise of the dentist performing the treatment
• The size of the indirect fillings you need
• The number of teeth that need porcelain inlays and onlays
• The type of teeth that need treatment (e.g. molars vs canines)
• The material you’ve chosen for the indirect filling
• The type of impression being made (e.g. using CEREC technology)

We’ll provide an estimate of the all costs after your consultation, typically, porcelain inlays may cost you anywhere from $250 to $1,500. Porcelain onlays are more expensive ranging from $350 and $1,500 since they are larger in size. Contact our office for more information on costs.

Depending on the terms and conditions of your insurance policy, dental treatment like porcelain inlays and onlays fall into categories such as “basic” or “major” services.

Some insurance companies consider indirect fillings as basic treatment along with regular teeth cleaning, fillings, and other dental work. Further, they may have pre-set limits on the coverage they provide. You might be able to get about 80% reimbursement for the costs, which can vary according to the area where you live and the type of porcelain inlays or onlays you need. On the other hand, if the treatment falls in the major category, the insurance carrier may cover only 50% of the total expense. At the time of making your decision, check with your insurance provider first.